Teslas are popular vehicles for many reasons. Style, luxuriousness, and innovative technology are just a few of the selling points that have made this brand so successful. Drivers are enthusiastic about these cars, although the paint finish is only a soft clear coat. So how can Tesla owners protect their vehicles against damage from the elements?
Well, it largely depends on the level of protection desired. Read on to learn more about the most common methods of safeguarding your Tesla automobile.
Options for Protecting Your Tesla’s Paint
If you want to help your Tesla continue to gleam, there are several ways to increase the durability of the vehicle’s paint job. Which product is best for your car is best discussed with an automotive professional, but the following overview can give you a general idea of your options:
Ceramic Coating
A ceramic coating may be one of the best choices for those wanting high-quality Tesla paint protection. It’s a ceramic liquid with a silica base that gets applied as an extra layer on top of your current paint job. It’s popular because of the durability you get against most weather conditions. Plus, it keeps your car looking bright and shiny with added scratch resistance.
It’s important to note that unless you have familiarity with applying this type of product, you should have a skilled professional handle the application. This will ensure you don’t end up with any haziness or unevenness in coverage.
PPF
Protective Paint Film (PPF) is a polyurethane film that is extremely tough and durable because it has a clear coat on its surface and an adhesive underneath. Even more impressive is that PPF has a thickness that’s triple that of vinyl, effectively protecting against scuffs, weather elements, UV, and most scratches.
This type of paint protection for your Tesla can also “self-heal,” helping to minimize and eliminate scratches by applying heat. Even more exciting is that cleaning your vehicle is even easier with PPF applied, and your car maintains a brilliant glossy appearance.
Polymer Sealants
Another durable paint protector is polymer sealant. When applied professionally, many Tesla vehicles enjoy about six months of additional protection against scuffs and scratches, though not as effective as PPF or ceramic.
You can also apply sealants yourself, and these products come in several forms, including:
- Liquid
- Paste
- Spray
If you want a budget-friendly option, this is it, but plan on reapplying these products every six months to ensure effectiveness.
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax is a long-time favorite of car owners to protect their vehicle paint jobs from the elements. This protectant has been popular for a little over a hundred years but has slowly been replaced by more affordable products that offer better protection. Still, it does have some benefits, including:
- High melting point
- Water resistance
- UV protection
- Glossy shine
- Comes in wax or liquid form
However, it’s not very resistant to scratches. If you aren’t sure you want to invest in PPF or ceramic coating for your Tesla, this option will last about three months before reapplication is necessary.
Clear Coat
While it’s true that your Tesla already comes with a clear coat layer, you could add another application to protect your car’s paint further. This type of paint protection isn’t nearly as effective as PPF or even Carnauba wax products, but scratches and scuffs won’t penetrate the vehicle’s surface as deeply.
Another benefit of clear coat is the glossy shine you’ll achieve once applied. It will even enhance the depth of color in your Tesla, making it even more eye-catching. However, you should still consider adding another product on top of the clear coat to enhance resistance to road debris and the elements.
Garage/ Covered Parking
Keeping your Tesla parked in a covered parking area or garage is an ideal step to take, and adding a protective coating. The reality is that by not exposing its paint job to the outside elements 24/7, you automatically increase the durability of your car’s surface tenfold.
However, if parking your auto in a sheltered spot isn’t possible, consider buying a quality car cover instead. Any type of additional safeguards for your Tesla is important in maintaining its lustrous colors and preventing unnecessary scratches and scuffs from constant environmental exposure.
So, Which Option is Best for Your Tesla?
Undoubtedly, Tesla is easily one of the sharpest and most advanced vehicles on the market today. Therefore, it makes sense to protect your investment’s value by taking steps to preserve its beauty with one of the products shared in this article.
Paint protection film or a ceramic coating would enhance and safeguard your car’s exterior the best, but other options like a polymer sealant can also produce satisfactory results. Take time to determine which areas on your vehicle are the most vulnerable to road debris, sun damage, and other destructive elements. A professional automotive shop can also advise you on what would be best for your Tesla and can ensure your choice gets applied properly.
